Sethzelorahn was previously ruled through an unusual take on the concept of monarchy: while an inherited title, the ruler of the city and its holdings could be challenged as early as three years after taking the throne, typically in elaborate contests which included games of strategy, demonstrations of physical strength, and the nebulous category of "expression" (most often interpreted as an art competition or debate). The exact title changed based on the whims of whomever was in power at the time, though this did not change the extent of their sovereignty.

The ruler of Sethzelorahn had an elaborate court that tended to not do terribly much beyond engage in courtly politics, the exceptions being a handful of diplomats to deal with the outside world and a trio of seers that served as advisors to their monarch.